West Ham have set a “minimum target” of an 8th-place finish for incoming head coach Julen Lopetegui, according to The Telegraph.

The Spaniard is set to be named as David Moyes’ successor in the coming days and weeks, but the Hammers are expecting him to hit the ground running once he has taken his seat in the dugout.

Lopetegui has been linked with a number of high-profile jobs across Europe. AC Milan were regarded as favourites to secure his services until very recently.

It was also revealed on Monday that Bayern Munich had enquired about his availability but the 57-year-old had already verbally agreed to take the West Ham job.

The Telegraph claim that Lopetegui is confident that he can match the expectations of the club’s board and fans when he takes the reins at the London Stadium.

Why have West Ham decided to appoint Lopetegui?

It is believed that the former Real Madrid and Sevilla boss impressed chairman David Sullivan during face-to-face discussions. The fact that he already speaks good English was classed as an added bonus.

In addition, Lopetegui’s experience of the Premier League, having guided Wolves away from the relegation places during the 2022/23 season, also proved to be an influential factor.

When will Lopetegui’s appointment be announced?

No exact date has been given for when the Spaniard will be officially appointed as Moyes’ replacement. Reports suggest that Lopetegui has not yet signed official documents, but he has already held talks (most likely with technical director Tim Steidten) about the club’s summer transfer plans.

Some fans may still be hoping that the club pull out of the agreement at the last moment and move on to another managerial target, but all the signs point towards Lopetegui being confirmed as the next West Ham boss in the very near future.